Holiday Wish

In high school, my best friend was Jody (Joan) Grueskin. I can say that her friendship saved my life, for I was a very shy, nerdy type who lived for school. With Jo, my life expanded to include community theater (and skipping school! I also learned the rule of the road that the car goes where the driver [Jody] wants to take it.)

Michelle, Joanne Hoberg, and Joan Grueskin McAdam, 2010

Back then, as now, Jo had a brother, Bob.

1970

This week’s message was reposted by him on Facebook:

“Some thoughts as we enter the holiday season…

“It is important to remember that not everyone is surrounded by large, wonderful families or caring friends in close proximity. Some of us have problems during the holidays and some of us are overcome with great sadness when we remember the loved ones who are not with us. And many people have no one to spend these times with and are besieged by loneliness. There are also too many people who are struggling every day to make ends meet.

“Let us remember the true meaning of the holidays: to be thankful.

“We all need caring, loving thoughts right now. My sincerest wish for all of my friends is that you each know that you are loved. There are people (including me) who care about you deeply. If I don’t see your name I will understand.”

Bob asks us to remember to provide moral “support for all those who have family problems, health struggles, job issues, worries of any kind and just need to know someone cares. Do it for all of us, for nobody is immune….God bless!”